Travelling from the electric energy of Bangkok to the sandy shores of Phuket offers the perfect blend of rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and a serene coastal escape. As Thailand’s bustling capital and international travel hub, Bangkok sees flights arriving and departing nearly every minute. It's a city alive with golden temples, sizzling street food, and nonstop movement. When you’re ready to trade the city buzz for ocean breezes, Phuket is just a short journey away. With its relaxed island vibe, crystal-clear waters, and palm-fringed beaches, the contrast between the two is striking — making them the perfect pairing for your next Thailand adventure.

Phuket is in southern Thailand, approximately 840 kms from Bangkok. The capital sits in the central region of the country, while Phuket is an offshore island connected to the mainland by a bridge. Getting between the two destinations is a quick 1 hour and 30 minutes flight (or a longer scenic journey, if you prefer). 

Cost: From AU$60 one way

Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes

Leaves from: Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport

Goes to: Phuket International Airport

Flying from Bangkok to Phuket is undoubtedly the quickest and most convenient way to travel. There are multiple flights per day from both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang Airports, making it an ideal choice for travellers looking to save time. Plus, flight fares are pretty reasonable for this short journey. You can book your Bangkok to Phuket flight here.

Cost: From AU$34

Duration: 12 - 14 hours

Leaves from: Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai)

Goes to: Phuket Bus Terminal 

Taking a bus is definitely a more budget-friendly option. Several companies offer buses for the journey; however, comfort levels may vary, and — not to mention the obvious — the journey is long. However, for those who are keen to see more of Thailand’s countryside along the way while saving on transport, a bus could be a good money-saving option. 

Cost: From AU$25 (including a bus fare)

Duration:12 - 16 hours in total

Leaves from: Bangkok Hua Lamphong Train Station (train) and Surat Thani (bus)

Goes to: Phuket via Surat Thani Train Station

While this option is the cheapest, it is the longest and most tiring way to get to Phuket from Bangkok. Therefore, we’d only recommend taking the train if you’re planning to explore Surat Thani as well. The journey begins on a 9-hour train ride to Surat Thani (with the option of an overnight sleeper train) departing from Bangkok Hua Lamphong Train Station. Once you arrive at Surat Thani, you’ll need to catch a bus to Phuket, which will take 4 hours and 30 minutes. You’ll get the chance to stop halfway to get some food on this bus journey. 

The journey is long, but overnight sleeper trains will help save on accommodation for budget-conscious travellers.

Cost: From AU$33 a day (excluding fuel)

Duration: 10 - 12 hours

Leaves from: Bangkok

Goes to: Phuket

Opting to hire a car is also an option for those who prefer a road trip. The drive from Bangkok to Phuket takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Plus, renting a car offers the flexibility to stop and explore places along the way. Who knows, you might discover a hidden gem you wouldn’t have had the chance to if you had chosen to fly instead. 

It’s important to note that you’ll need to add the cost of fuel as well as the time spent stopping along the way (which you will definitely need to). 

The best way to get from Bangkok to Phuket is by plane. It’s the fastest and most convenient way to get to Phuket, for a reasonable price. 

Taking the train (and bus) to get from Bangkok to Phuket is the cheapest; however, it’s also the longest and arguably the most tiring way to get between these two destinations. 

If travelling on a budget is your top priority, then taking a train and then a bus is probably your best option. Otherwise, taking a train and bus isn’t popular amongst most travellers planning this journey. 

As mentioned, the fastest way to get from Bangkok to Phuket is by plane, clocking in just under 1 hour and 30 minutes. Just enough time for a quick power nap before your next adventure. 

Whether you need hotels in Bangkok or Phuket, or a flight to Thailand from Australia, Traveloka is your one-stop shop for everything you need to make your South East Asia trip spectacular.